The Poor Man's Judge

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John K. Hackett, Recorder of the City of New York, was born into a theatrical family.

A Member Of Hackett's Acting Family

"After practising [law] in New York City several years, he [John K. Hackett] went to California with other New Yorkers about the time the gold fever broke out. He practised law in the city of San Francisco a few years and then returned to New York City."

"While in California* Hackett and George G. Barnard were intimate friends. Barnard, soon after he commenced his residence in the City of New York, was elected Recorder, and before his term had expired was elected Judge of the Supreme Court. Through Barnard's influence...Hackett became Recorder."

"His judicial career was held in high esteem by the Press and the community generally. He had the reputation of being a bold and fearless Judge and his name was a terror to criminals." [Source]

*"He was reputed to be, and probably was, the best pistol shot in the United States." 

Names of persons who sentences were suspended by Recorder John K. Hackett:

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